Martinez Scores Twice To Lead CF Montréal Past Atlanta United 2-1

As you follow Atlanta United’s journey through the 2024 MLS season, you’ll find that not every match ends in victory. Wednesday night’s clash against CF Montréal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium resulted in defeat for the home side. Despite Daniel Ríos notching his seventh goal of the season, it wasn’t enough to overcome a determined Montréal squad led by Josef Martínez’s brace. Martínez, the former Atlanta United striker, made a triumphant return to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, but this time wearing the colors of CF Montréal. The Venezuelan forward proved to be the difference-maker in this closely contested match, netting both goals for the visiting side.

The match showcased moments of brilliance from both teams, with near misses and spectacular saves keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Let’s delve into the key moments that shaped this intense midweek encounter and examine how Atlanta United’s playoff hopes have been affected.

First Half: Promising Start, Late Equalizer

The match began with Atlanta showing promise, as Alexey Miranchuk tested Montréal’s goalkeeper early on. The Russian midfielder continued to be a creative force, nearly setting up Saba Lobjanidze for the opener. However, it was Montréal who struck first, with Martínez finding the net in the 43rd minute. Atlanta’s resilience shone through just before halftime when Daniel Ríos headed home an equalizer, breathing new life into the contest.

Second Half: Missed Opportunities and Heartbreak

Atlanta came out strong after the break, with Lobjanidze coming agonizingly close to giving his team the lead. His thunderous half-volley in the 59th minute rattled the crossbar, leaving fans wondering what might have been. Unfortunately, it was Martínez who would have the final say, scoring his second goal in the 76th minute to secure the win for Montréal. Despite a late push, including a close header from substitute Jamal Thiare, Atlanta couldn’t find an equalizer.

Looking Ahead

This result leaves Atlanta United with a record of 8 wins, 14 losses, and 10 draws, accumulating 34 points for the season. The loss does not eliminate Atlanta, however every point becomes crucial in their quest for a postseason berth.

With only two matches remaining on the regular season the team will need to regroup quickly as they prepare to host the New York Red Bulls on Saturday, October 5th without Brooks Lennon who will miss Saturday’s match due to yellow card accumulation.

“Pedro [Amador] has done a great job. He is very, very consistent, he fights, he competes, has a great delivery with his left foot, and defensively he has been solid and winning his tackles.” said Interim Head Coach Rob Valentino.  “Alexey [Miranchuk] is still integrating, and I think we can find him more in spaces and we have play quickly through him, so there is more we should be able to get by playing through him, but they have both been good additions to the team and they will have good futures here.”

The 5-stripes will need to build on the positive aspects of the team’s resilience and attacking prowess, particularly from Alexey Miranchuk and Saba Lobjanidze, offer encouragement for future fixtures while addressing defensive lapses. The team’s ability to bounce back from this setback will be a true test of their character and determination.